Apparatus for securing drawer contents

ABSTRACT

A cabinet having a plurality of drawers, each drawer having at least one compartment. The cabinet includes a computer and a panel pivotally coupled to one of the drawers. The panel is disposed in a covering relationship with the compartments within the drawer and includes at least one opening. The opening corresponds with the compartment. A cover is pivotally connected to the panel and covers the opening. A locking mechanism is interconnected with the drawer and the cover. The locking mechanism receives a signal from the computer to position it in one of a locked and unlocked position.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/636,368, filed Aug. 7, 2003, which claims priority to U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 60/401,832, filed Aug. 7, 2002, theentire contents of both of which are incorporated herein by reference intheir entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to storage cabinets, and particularly tomulti-compartment storage cabinets used to store items. Moreparticularly, the present invention relates to storage cabinets havingcomputer-controlled access.

Conventional cabinets are often used in factories, shops, plants, storesor other sites to store small tools, parts, ingredients or other items.The cabinets allow for better organization and space utilization, whilesimultaneously improving worker productivity by eliminating time wastedlooking for items.

Typical cabinets of the type described herein are often used to storeconsumables or small parts that are commonly used within a particularfactory or shop. Because these parts are purchased and stored in bulk,accurate inventory and costing of the products made using these parts isdifficult. In addition, misappropriation of the parts is difficult todetect or prevent.

In other situations, the use of a cabinet is desirable, however, due tothe nature of the items to be placed in the cabinet, security precludestheir use. For example, dangerous elements such as mercury may be neededto assemble a product such as a mercury switch. However, mercury is toohazardous to allow uncontrolled access within a factory. Therefore, thecomponents necessary to make a complete switch cannot be securely storedwithin the cabinet. Instead, the materials are typically stored in aremote secure location that requires the worker to waste time and effortretrieving them. To save time, workers often request excessive materialsresulting in an increase in wasted material, time, and risk.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a retrofit kit for controlling thecontents within a preexisting cabinet having a drawer, the drawer havingat least one compartment. The kit includes a computer and a panelcoupled to the drawer. The panel substantially covers the compartmentwithin the drawer and includes at least one opening. The panel openingcorresponds with the drawer compartment. The kit also includes a covermovably connected to the panel and substantially covering the opening. Alocking mechanism is interconnected with the cover to selectively lockand unlock the cover. The locking mechanism receives a signal toposition the locking mechanism in one of a locked and unlocked position.

In another embodiment, the invention provides a kit for controlling thecontents of a compartment. The kit includes a computer and a panelsubstantially covering the compartment. The panel includes at least oneopening that corresponds with the compartment. The kit also includes acover movably connected to the panel and substantially covering theopening. A locking mechanism is interconnected with the cover toselectively lock and unlock the cover. The locking mechanism receives asignal to position the locking mechanism in one of a locked and unlockedposition.

In another embodiment, the invention provides a cabinet including aplurality of drawers, each drawer including at least one compartment. Apanel connects to the drawer and substantially covers the compartment.The panel includes at least one opening, the opening corresponding tothe compartment within the drawer. At least one cover movably connectsto the panel to substantially cover the opening. At least one lockingmechanism interconnects the cover and is selectively movable between alocked and an unlocked position. When in the locked position, the covercovers the opening and when in the unlocked position the cover ismovable to expose the compartment.

In preferred constructions, each drawer includes a number ofcompartments and an equal number of openings, covers, and lockingmechanisms.

In still another embodiment, the invention provides a method ofassembling a product using a cabinet having a plurality of compartmentscontaining items. Each compartment includes a switch, an LED, and alocking mechanism. The cabinet also includes a graphical user interfaceand a selection device. The method comprises the acts of initiating adisplay on the graphical user interface and using the selection deviceto indicate a desired item. The method also includes the acts ofilluminating at least one LED to guide a user to the desired one of theplurality of compartments, actuating the locking mechanism, and removingthe desired item.

In preferred embodiments, the graphical user interface displays aprocedure or a drawing and the selection device is a touch screen.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The detailed description particularly refers to the accompanying figuresin which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cabinet including the panels embodyingthe present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a drawer of the cabinet of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a top view of a compartment within the drawer of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a side view of the compartment of FIG. 3; and

FIG. 5 is a front sectional view of a portion of the compartment of FIG.3.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a cabinet 10 having a plurality of drawers 12 adaptedto store items and fitted with a kit 15 of the present invention. Thekit 15 includes a control center 20, a plurality of panels 25, and aplurality of indicators 30. The indicators 30 are generally lightemitting diodes (LED) that illuminate to aid the user in finding thedesired item. For example, the cabinet 10 of FIG. 1 includes a pluralityof drawer LEDs 35 positioned vertically down the front of the cabinet 10adjacent the drawers 12. One LED 35 is positioned adjacent each drawer12. When a user requests an item, the LED 35 that corresponds to thedrawer 12 that contains the item is illuminated to quickly guide theuser.

The term “item” as used herein includes any physical thing that may beused by a user. Items include but are not limited to parts, tools,chemicals, substances, food ingredients, consumables, etc. In addition,terms such as “tool” or “part” may be used to describe specific examplesof uses of a cabinet as described herein, however, these terms shouldnot be read as limiting the cabinets use to tools or parts. Instead, theterms “tool” and “part” may be read broadly to include any physicalitem.

The cabinet 10 is similar to many cabinets currently used in industryworldwide. Stanley-Vidmar, of Allentown, Pa. sells a cabinet under modelnumber SEP2025AL that is similar to the cabinet 10 illustrated inFIG. 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the cabinet 10 includes ninedrawers 12, with more or less drawers 12 being possible. In addition,each drawer 12 is subdivided into a plurality of compartments 40. Forexample, the drawer 12 shown in the open position in FIG. 1 issubdivided into twenty compartments 40. Other constructions may employ adrawer 12 or drawers 12 that are not subdivided, but instead provide onelarge compartment 40. Still other constructions may employ more or lessthan twenty compartments 40. The walls subdividing the drawers are oftenmovable to allow the user to configure the compartments 40 as necessaryfor a particular use.

It should be noted that while the term cabinet is used throughout thedescription to describe the preferred embodiment, the term cabinetshould not be read as limiting the invention. For example, otherconstructions secure the contents of single individual drawers builtinto walls or other structures. In another construction, the presentinvention is built into a mechanic's van to aid in the location of itemstherein. In still another construction, the apparatus of the presentinvention protects the contents of a mechanic's mobile cabinet. As onehaving ordinary skill in the art will realize, the invention is capableof securing the contents within any compartment and is capable ofguiding the user to the correct compartment no matter what supports thecompartment. Therefore, the invention should not be limited to cabinetsalone.

Each drawer 12 slides into and out of the cabinet 10 to provide a userwith access to the parts, tools, or other items stored within thedrawers 12. In some cabinets 10, a lock mechanism 45 allows the user tolock all of the drawers 12, thereby preventing unwanted removal of thecabinet's contents. Many lock mechanisms 45 are available that securethe drawers 12 of cabinets 10. FIG. 1 illustrates a lock mechanism 45that includes a key 50 that moves two bars 55 into engagement with amechanism that prevents the drawers 12 from opening. A still simplerdevice includes an L-shaped piece (not shown) connected to the cabinetat a hinge. The L-shaped piece covers a portion of the drawers when inthe locked position to prevent their opening. Other constructions employa solenoid-actuated lock that locks all of the drawers. Thesolenoid-actuated lock may include a single solenoid capable of lockingor unlocking all of the drawers or may include multiple solenoids, eachcapable of locking or unlocking one or more of the drawers.

The cabinet 10 illustrated is stationary; that is, it is placed directlyon the floor or onto another cabinet within a factory, shop, or storagearea. Other constructions include cabinets 10 placed on castors orwheels to provide mobile sources of items. In the case of a mobilecabinet, a mobile power supply may be included with the kit 15 to allowthe cabinet to be positioned remote from a power supply.

Turning to FIG. 2, a drawer 12 is illustrated removed from the cabinet10 of FIG. 1. The drawer 12 includes one of the panels 25 of the kit 15of the present invention connected to the drawer 12 by a hinge 60 at therear of the panel 25 and a lock-rod 65 at the front. The hinge 60includes a rod 70 that extends the full width of the drawer 12 andengages both the drawer 12 and the panel 25. The rod 70 attaches in amanner that allows the panel 25 to pivot about the rod 70. Otherconstructions use two or more smaller hinges that attach to both therear of the drawer 12 and the panel 25. In still other constructions,the panel 25 may include two pins sticking out a back edge of the panel25 and into holes in the rear wall of the drawer 12. The holes are sizedsuch that the pins need not be positioned in the holes onlyperpendicularly to the holes. The pins can angle back and forth in theholes and permit the panel 25 to be opened and closed relative to thedrawer 12. In this way, the pin/hole combination serves as a “hinge” atthe back of the drawer.

Again referring to FIG. 2, the lock-rod 65 includes two rods 75 thatconnect to a key-mechanism 80 or other security device that isactuatable by only certain users (e.g., users with the key). Whenrotated into the locked position, the rods 75, which slidably connect tothe panel 25, extend into the side of the drawer 12. Thus, the rods 75prevent the lifting or removal of the panel 25 without disassembling thehinge 60 or causing damage. When the key 80 is rotated to the unlockedposition, the rods 75 retract and disengage the drawer 12, therebyallowing the panel 25 to be opened by pivoting it about the hinge 60.

In another construction, an electronic locking device is employed. Oneor more solenoids (not shown) engage the panel 25 and the drawer 12 inthe deenergized state. A user inputs a code into the control center 20(FIG. 1) or other controller to indicate sufficient rights to gainaccess to the drawer 12. The solenoid energizes to disengage from thedrawer 12 and allow access. While the lock mechanism has been describedas using a code, many other methods of determining a user's identity(e.g., biometrics, such as fingerprint identification, etc.) arecontemplated by the present invention.

Other constructions employ still other locking arrangements. Forexample, one construction employs one screw (not shown) at each cornerto attach the panel 25 to the drawer 12. A tab that can rotate out ofits covering position with a key covers one or more of the screws. Thus,the panel 25 cannot be removed without using the key to rotate the taband reveal the screw. In yet another construction, a simple padlocklocks the panel 25 to the drawer 12 and can only be removed with theproper key or combination. Additionally, the panel 25 could removablyslide onto the drawer 12 or could be fixed to the drawer 12. As will bereadily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, many ways ofsecuring the panels 25 to the drawers 12 are available.

The openable panel 25 allows for quick restocking, inventory, or manualoverride (e.g., in the event of power failure), etc., of thecompartments 40 within the drawer 12. A user with sufficient rights oraccess privileges opens the panel 25 to gain access to all of thecompartments 40. The user can easily add or remove items from some orall of the compartments 40, as desired.

Still referring to FIG. 2, a plurality of covers 85 attach to the panel25, or are formed as part of the panel 25, in a pattern that matches thecompartment arrangement within the drawer 12. Because many differentdrawer patterns are available in existing cabinets 10, many differentpanels 25 are necessary and contemplated by the invention. Referring toFIGS. 2-5, each of the covers 85 attaches to the panel 25 with a hinge90 and locking mechanism 95. The hinge 90, positioned near the rear ofeach cover 85, allows the cover 85 to pivot open, thereby providingaccess to the items within the compartment 40. The locking mechanism 95engages the cover 85 and holds it in a closed position unless the usersuccessfully requests access to the compartment 40. Once access issuccessfully requested, the locking mechanism 95 releases the cover 85and allows the user to retrieve the desired item. Although FIG. 2illustrates the panel 25 hinged to the drawer 12 at the rear, it will bereadily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that the panel 25may be connected to the drawer at the front or along a side.

The panels 25 can be manufactured from any suitable material (e.g.,plastics, metals, ceramics, composites, wood, etc.) with steel andplastic being the preferred materials. The covers 85 are preferablyformed from solid steel sheet, particularly if warranted by the value ofthe materials stored therein. Other constructions use clear plastic toprovide the user with a view of the items within the compartments 40.Still other constructions use opaque plastics or other materials for thecovers 85.

The locking mechanism 95, best illustrated in FIGS. 3-5, includes asolenoid 100 positioned to engage an aperture in an extension 102 of thecover 85 when the cover is in the closed position. The solenoid 100receives a signal when a user successfully requests an item. Thesolenoid plunger 105 retracts and disengages from the cover 85. In someconstructions, a spring or magnetic device biases the cover 85 open toaid the user in opening or finding the correct compartment 40.

Also included with the kit 15 are take and return switches 110, 112, acompartment LED indicator 115, and a photodetector, mechanical switch,or other detector 120 for each compartment 40. The take and returnswitches 110, 112 aid the control center 20 in monitoring the quantityof items within each compartment 40. Each time a user actuates the takeswitch 110 (and subsequently opens the cover 85 associated with thecompartment 40), the control center 20 records the removal of a singleitem from the open compartment 40. When a user actuates the returnswitch 112, the control center 20 registers an increase in the quantityof items within the compartment 40. Alternatively, each compartment 40could contain only a single item, so that a user would not need toactuate take and return switches 110, 112. Instead, the control center20 would record the removal of an item (and the vacancy of thatcompartment 40 thereafter) whenever a cover 85 is opened.

In preferred constructions, the take and return switches 110, 112 signalthe solenoid 100 to energize to open the desired compartment 40. Inother constructions, the control center 20 signals the solenoid 100 toenergize and open the compartment 40.

The take and return switches 110, 112 can be simple buttons or toggleswitches. However, other constructions employ other devices to indicatewhen an item is removed or replaced. For example, one construction usesan electromagnetic or light curtain covering the opening. When the userremoves or replaces a part, the curtain is broken and a signal is sentto the control center to register the removal or replacement of a part.Other constructions use magnetic detectors, or weight or pressuresensors to determine when a part is removed from the compartment 40.Still other constructions may employ embedded chip technology to detectthe removal of a part. Each part or an attached label contains amicrochip (such as RFID), or other device or element, that can bedetected by sensors near each compartment. The removal is detected bythe sensors and registered.

The photodetector 120 sends a signal to the control center 20 toindicate that the compartment cover 85 is open. While a photodetector120 is illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, other types of detectors (proximityprobes, magnetic probes, etc.) will also perform the function of thephotodetector 120. In some constructions, the control center 20 monitorsthe photodetector signal to verify that the correct compartment 40 isopen and that it is successfully closed following use. In addition, someconstructions use the photodetector 120 to monitor the duration that acompartment 40 is open. If a compartment 40 remains open for a durationthat exceeds a preset limit, the control center 20 initiates an alarm orlocks the cabinet drawers 12 and covers 85 to prevent access.Additionally, the status (open or closed) of each of the panels 25 oreach of the drawers 12 could be monitored with photodetectors.

The compartment LED indicators 115 within the drawers 12 are positionedadjacent the various compartments 40. When a user successfully requestsan item, the LED 115 adjacent the compartment 40 containing the itemilluminates to quickly guide the user to that compartment. While notnecessary for the security provided by the kit 15, the LEDs 115facilitate improved worker productivity by reducing the time spentlooking for a particular item.

FIG. 1 illustrates the control center 20, which includes a video display125, a microprocessor, a memory device, and a data storage device, allpreferably housed within control center 20. Also included are a keyboard130, and a card reader 135. The control center 20 runs a program thatboth regulates access to the components within the cabinet 10 andmaintains an accurate inventory of the items within the cabinet 10.Furthermore, the program can monitor the rate of use of specificcomponents, the length of time the items have been in a particularcompartment 40, and the person or persons accessing the cabinet 10.Generally, the program is stored on the control center's data storagedevice for execution by the microprocessor and the memory device.However, other constructions may employ a program that is stored in aremote location, such as a server, and is downloaded when needed. Stillother constructions may employ a “dumb” display terminal that simplydisplays a program that is executed at a remote location. Further, thecontrol center 20 is shown on top of the cabinet 10. However, thecontrol center 20 may be remote from the cabinet 10. Also, as mentioned,the control center 20 can be used to monitor many parameters concerningthe cabinet 10. However, it should be understood that the control center20 can be used to monitor various parameters concerning multiplecabinets 10, both proximate to and remote from the control center 20.

To access the cabinet 10, the user swipes a card 200 through the cardreader 135 or inputs a user identification code and/or a password intothe control center 20 via the keyboard 130. If the person has the properrights, the video display 125 presents a user interface that facilitatesaccess to the items within the cabinet 10. A graphical user interface(GUI) displays a list of items available or another representation thatfacilitates the proper item choice. For example, a factory may provide acabinet 10 that contains all of the necessary replacement parts andspecial tools needed to disassemble, repair, or build a particularcomponent such as an engine or pump. The GUI would present an assemblyprocedure including drawings or special tools needed. When the userindicates that a step requiring a special tool has been reached, theproper drawer 12 is indicated and the LED 115 indicating the propercompartment 40 illuminates. Thus, the cabinet 10 acts to assure that theproper tools and parts are used to assemble a product or sub-assembly.

In another example, the cabinet 10 acts as a spare parts repository foruse in rebuilding old devices or sub-assemblies. As the rebuildprogresses, assembly drawings are displayed in the GUI. A touch screenallows the user to touch the desired replacement part on the screen. Thetouch screen interfaces with the control center 20 to illuminate theproper drawer and compartment LED's 35, 115 to guide the user to thecorrect part. In some constructions, the control center 20 also signalsthe proper solenoid 100 to energize and open the compartment 40.

In another construction, embedded chip technology allows a user to waivea card past a detector to gain access to the cabinet 15. In still otherconstructions, a biometric device determines user identity based onbiological characteristics (e.g., face, fingerprints, hand geometry,handwriting, iris, retinal, vein, or voice, etc.) and replaces the cardreader 135. The level of security desired determines the level ofauthentication required to gain access to the cabinet 10. Furthermore, amouse or other input device may replace the keyboard 130 and/or touchscreen 125. In one construction, a voice recognition module determineswhich item the user has requested.

The microprocessor of the control center 20 may be part of a computerincluding memory, input/output devices, and information storage devices.In other constructions, the microprocessor interfaces with a network toretrieve and store information, thereby centralizing control of severalcabinets 10. In still other constructions, the control center 20 is acentral computer or server and each cabinet 10 or group of cabinets 10interface with it through a “dumb” terminal. The network interface maybe wireless to facilitate easy movement of the cabinets 10 throughout afacility.

In use, the cabinet 10 controls access to the parts or items containedtherein, tracks who is accessing the cabinet 10, and maintains anaccurate inventory of the items. In addition, the cabinet 10 can beprogrammed to track project or job numbers, tool usage, or any otherinformation desired, when items are accessed. This information can beused to aid in determining cost, waste, productivity, return of tools,or any other parameter desired.

To retrieve an item, a user first accesses the cabinet 10. Many methodshave been described and are contemplated for this step. The specificmethod used is dependant on the level of security desired and the costof implementing the system.

Once accessed, a GUI is displayed that facilitates the choice of theitem within the cabinet 10. Again, multiple techniques of displayingitems, from a simple list to a complicated assembly drawing, arecontemplated. Once the user identifies the item, the choice is inputinto the microprocessor. This can be done by pointing to the item with amouse, selecting the item from a list, touching a touch screen, ortyping in an identifier such as a part name or number. In anotherconstruction, voice recognition technology allows the user to state thename or number of the desired part. In still other constructions, theuser simply actuates the take switch 110 to indicate which part isdesired.

Once input, the microprocessor or remote computer determines the drawer12 in which the item is located and actuates an indicator 35. Theindicator 35 illustrated is an LED. The user opens the appropriatedrawer 12 to expose the compartments 40 within the drawer 12. A secondindicator 115, again an LED in the illustrated construction, isilluminated near the compartment 40 containing the desired item. Inaddition to illuminating the two LEDs 35, 115, the computer ormicroprocessor in some constructions also actuates the appropriatesolenoid 100 to unlock the cover 85 of the desired compartment 40. Theuser is now free to open the compartment 40 and remove the desired itemin the desired quantity. In preferred constructions, the computerilluminates the LEDs 35, 115 to guide the user to the proper compartmentand the user actuates the take or return switch 110, 112 to energize thesolenoid 100 and open the compartment.

It should be noted that while LEDs have been described as theindicators, many other types of indicators are contemplated (e.g.,conventional lights, flags, sounds, liquid crystal displays (LCD),etc.).

After removing the item, the user actuates the take switch 110 a numberof times corresponding to the number of items taken. (As mentioned, ifonly one item is stored in each compartment 40, inventory can bemonitored based on the opening of a cover 85 alone.) For example, iffive items are removed, the take button 110 is depressed five times.Alternatively, the take button could be actuated once and the number ofitems taken could be entered into the computer. If, on the other hand,the user makes a mistake and depresses the take button 110 six times,the user simply needs to depress the return switch 112 once to correctthe number taken to five. Thus, the control center 20 is able tomaintain accurate control over the inventory within the cabinet 10. Inother constructions, other sensors are employed to aid in inventorycontrol. For example, one construction includes a pressure sensor orforce cell disposed below the compartment. The sensor determines theweight of the objects within the compartment 40. The control center 20or other computer uses the weight of the individual items and the weightwithin the compartment 40 to calculate the quantity of items within thecompartment 40, and thus the quantity taken.

In the application described above, in which the drawers 12 are filledwith parts and tools needed to assemble a component. The cabinet 10improves quality control while also controlling inventory and assuringthat the proper parts are used. The drawers 12 and cabinets 10 areprepared based on customer orders and sent to the shop floor forassembly. Minor design variations or model changes are easilyaccommodated by supplying the proper parts within the cabinet 10. Byusing the cabinet 10 in this manner, the employee performing theassembly must follow the procedure displayed on the video display 125 inorder to get the parts needed, thus improving the quality, accuracy, andspeed of product assembly.

When the cabinets 10 are used as spare parts repositories, the programtracks which parts or components are used for which job, therebyassuring that the customer is charged for the parts actually used.

In some applications, the cabinet 10 secures hazardous or dangerouscomponents, thereby providing the needed security while stillfacilitating efficient assembly of the products using these components.Rather than requiring a worker to request these substances from astorage area the worker simply requests them from the secure cabinet. Ifthe worker has sufficient training, and rights, the cabinet releases thesubstances to that worker.

One construction of the kit 15 is adapted to retrofit into preexistingcabinets. As such, a variety of panel configurations are available tomatch the preexisting drawer configurations. In other constructions, thekit is installed by an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) as part ofthe cabinet or other product (e.g., mechanics van, drawers, or mechanicsmobile cabinet).

Although the invention has been described in detail with reference tocertain preferred embodiments, variations and modifications exist withinthe scope and spirit of the invention as described and defined in thefollowing claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of retrofitting a kit for controllingcontents into a preexisting cabinet, the cabinet including a drawerhaving a base wall and perimeter walls defining a compartment, themethod comprising: providing a panel defining an opening; attaching acover to the panel, the cover being configured to selectively cover theopening; securing the panel to the drawer to substantially cover thecompartment; and connecting the panel to a control center, the controlcenter being operable to selectively allow movement of the coverrelative to the panel to provide access to the compartment in the drawerthrough the opening in the panel.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein thedrawer has a drawer height, and wherein securing the panel to the drawerincludes securing the panel to the drawer such that the drawer with thepanel and the cover secured thereon has a height at most equal to thedrawer height.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the drawer is slidableinto and out of the cabinet, and wherein securing the panel to thedrawer includes securing to the panel to the drawer such that the paneldoes not interfere with sliding movement of the drawer.
 4. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the cabinet includes a lock mechanism configured toinhibit sliding movement of the drawer out of the cabinet, and whereinthe method further comprises connecting the lock mechanism to thecontrol center, the control center being operable to selectively unlockthe lock mechanism.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein attaching thecover to the panel includes pivotally attaching the cover to the panelto selectively cover the opening.
 6. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising attaching a locking mechanism to one of the cover and thepanel, the locking mechanism being operable to selectively engage theother of the cover and the panel to lock the cover in a positioncovering the opening.
 7. The method of claim 6, further comprisingconnecting the locking mechanism to the control center, the controlcenter being operable to selectively actuate the locking mechanism tounlock the cover from the panel.
 8. The method of claim 7, wherein thelocking mechanism includes a solenoid, and wherein connecting thelocking mechanism to the control center includes connecting the solenoidto the control center such that the control center selectively actuatesthe solenoid.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein providing the panelincludes providing the panel with a locking device, and wherein securingthe panel to the drawer includes engaging a portion of the drawer withthe locking device.
 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the lockingdevice includes a rod, and wherein engaging a portion of the drawer withthe locking device includes extending the rod into at least one of theperimeter walls of the drawer.
 11. The method of claim 10, wherein thelocking device includes a key mechanism coupled to the rod, and whereinsecuring the panel to the drawer includes actuating the key mechanism tomove the rod relative to the drawer.
 12. The method of claim 9, whereinsecuring the panel to the drawer also includes pivotally attaching afirst edge of the panel to the drawer by a hinge, and wherein thelocking device is supported on a second edge of the panel opposite fromthe hinge.
 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the cabinet includes aplurality of drawers, each drawer having a base wall and perimeter wallsdefining a compartment, and wherein the method further comprises:providing a plurality of panels, each panel defining an opening;attaching a cover to each of the plurality of panels, each cover beingconfigured to selectively cover the opening of a corresponding panel;securing each panel to one of the plurality of drawers to substantiallycover the corresponding compartment; and connecting each panel to thecontrol center, the control center being operable to selectively allowmovement of each cover relative to the corresponding panel to provideaccess to the corresponding compartment in the corresponding drawerthrough the corresponding opening in the corresponding panel.
 14. Themethod of claim 13, further comprising: positioning a plurality ofindicators on the cabinet, each indicator corresponding to one of theplurality of drawers; and connecting the plurality of indicators to thecontrol center, the control center being operable to trigger eachindicator to identify which of the plurality of drawers contains adesired item.
 15. The method of claim 1, wherein the base wall and theperimeter walls of the drawer define a plurality of compartments, andwherein the method further comprises attaching a plurality of covers tothe panel, each cover being configured to selectively cover one of theplurality of compartments.
 16. The method of claim 15, furthercomprising: positioning a plurality of indicators on the panel, eachindicator corresponding to one of the plurality of covers; andconnecting the plurality of indicators to the control center, thecontrol center being operable to trigger each indicator to identifywhich of the plurality of compartments in the drawer contains a desireditem.
 17. The method of claim 1, further comprising: positioning a takeswitch on the panel; and connecting the take switch to the controlcenter, the control center being operable to record removal of an itemfrom the compartment when the take switch is actuated.
 18. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising: positioning a return switch on the panel;and connecting the return switch to the control center, the controlcenter being operable to register an increase in quantity of itemswithin the compartment when the return switch is actuated.
 19. A methodof retrofitting a kit for controlling contents into a preexistingcabinet, the cabinet including a plurality of drawers, each drawerhaving a base wall and perimeter walls defining a plurality ofcompartments, the method comprising: providing a plurality of panels,each panel defining a plurality of openings; attaching a plurality ofcovers to each of the plurality of panels, each cover being configuredto selectively cover one of the plurality of openings of thecorresponding panel; attaching a plurality of locking mechanisms to eachof the plurality of panels, each locking mechanism corresponding to oneof the plurality of covers on the corresponding panel and being operableto selectively engage the one of the plurality of covers to lock the oneof the plurality of covers in a position that covers the correspondingopening; positioning a plurality of indicators on each of the pluralityof panels, each indicator corresponding to one of the plurality ofcovers; securing each panel to one of the plurality of drawers tosubstantially cover the plurality of compartments in the correspondingdrawer; and connecting each locking mechanism and each indicator to acontrol center, the control center being operable to independentlyactuate each of the plurality of locking mechanisms to selectivelyunlock each cover from the corresponding panel and operable to triggereach of the plurality of indicators to identify which of the pluralityof compartments in a particular drawer contains a desired item.
 20. Themethod of claim 19, wherein each drawer has a drawer height, and whereinsecuring each panel to the one of the plurality of drawers includessecuring each panel to the one of the plurality of drawers such that theone of the plurality of drawers with the corresponding panel and thecorresponding covers secured thereon has a height that is at most equalto the drawer height.